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Bankruptcy in Pennsylvania: Exemptions and Filing Guide

State-specific bankruptcy exemptions and filing information for Pennsylvania. These exemptions determine what property you can keep when filing Chapter 7 bankruptcy.

Data last updated: Jan 15, 2025

Key Takeaways

  • Homestead exemption: None (Pennsylvania has no homestead exemption under state law).
  • Vehicle exemption: No specific vehicle exemption.
  • Federal exemptions available — you can choose state or federal.
  • Attorney fees: $1,200–$2,000 (Ch. 7) / $3,000–$4,500 (Ch. 13) typical.
None (Pennsylvania has no homestead exemption under state law) Homestead exemption
No specific vehicle exemption Vehicle exemption
Yes Federal option
$338 (Chapter 7) / $313 (Chapter 13) Filing fee

Pennsylvania Bankruptcy Exemptions

  • HomesteadNone (Pennsylvania has no homestead exemption under state law)
  • VehicleNo specific vehicle exemption
  • Personal property$300 in any property
  • Wildcard$300 (can apply to any property)
  • Federal exemptionsAvailable (can choose)

Means Test: Pennsylvania Median Income

To qualify for Chapter 7 in Pennsylvania, your income must be below the state median or you must pass the means test showing no disposable income for creditors.

  • 1 person$61,200
  • 2 people$76,200
  • 3 people$88,400
  • 4 people$103,600

Filing Costs

  • Court filing fee$338 (Chapter 7) / $313 (Chapter 13)
  • Typical attorney fee$1,200–$2,000 (Ch. 7) / $3,000–$4,500 (Ch. 13)
  • Court districtsEastern, Middle, and Western Districts of Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania bankruptcy court

Related Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Does Pennsylvania have a homestead exemption?

    No. Pennsylvania does not provide a state homestead exemption. However, debtors can elect federal exemptions which include a homestead exemption of approximately $27,900.

  • Can I choose federal exemptions in Pennsylvania?

    Yes. Pennsylvania allows debtors to choose between the very limited state exemptions and the federal bankruptcy exemptions. Most filers benefit from choosing federal exemptions.

  • Why are Pennsylvania's state exemptions so low?

    Pennsylvania's exemption laws are among the least generous in the country. The $300 general personal property exemption is minimal, which is why most filers choose federal exemptions.

  • What is the most common type of bankruptcy in Pennsylvania?

    Both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 are common. Due to the low state exemptions, Chapter 13 is often used to protect home equity through a repayment plan.

Legal Disclaimer: FreeNetLaw provides general legal information, not legal advice. The information on this site is not a substitute for consultation with a licensed attorney. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify information with official sources and consult a qualified attorney for advice about your specific situation.

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